Cat-Faced Spider

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Araneus gemmoides: //ˌæɹəˈniːəs ˈdʒɛˌmoʊ.aɪdz//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Summary

Araneus gemmoides, known as the cat-faced spider or jewel spider, is a common orb-weaver spider found in Canada and the USA. It is known for its distinctive markings and plays an important role in controlling insect populations.

Physical Characteristics

Female: 13 to 25 mm, Male: 5.4 to 7.9 mm. Characterized by fine white line crossed by two shallow white Vs on the anterior of the abdomen. Two horn-shaped growths on the relatively large abdomen, color changes from summer to winter.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic fine white lines and horn-shaped growths on the abdomen. Similar markings can be found on A. illaudatus, but may be difficult to distinguish if faint.

Habitat

Near lights, closed spaces, sides of buildings, under wood, overhangs, or animal burrows.

Distribution

Michigan west to British Columbia, south to Arizona and California, with reports as far east as Texas.

Diet

Variety of food including fish flies, house flies, mosquitoes, and other small spiders.

Life Cycle

Females die within days of laying a single egg sac with hundreds of eggs, which survive over winter. Emerging spiderlings eat their siblings and disperse by riding silk strands in warm air currents.

Reproduction

The females die within days after laying a single egg sac.

Ecosystem Role

Natural predator for insects, helping control insect populations.

Economic Impact

Considered harmless and beneficial as a natural pest control agent.

Health Concerns

Considered harmless with low-toxicity venom.

Similar Taxa

• Araneus illaudatus
• Araneus gemma

Misconceptions

It is sometimes confused with similar species due to similar markings.

Tags

• Araneidae
• cat-faced spider
• jewel spider
• North America
• orb-weaver